If you’re looking for a local restaurant that serves fresh sushi and has outstanding service, Twisted Kazuyo is a wonderful place to check out! Their menu has a large variety, catering to all different preferences. The carefully made dishes, comforting atmosphere, and welcoming staff provides customers with a pleasant experience, making them eager to return!
Twisted Kazuyo began with a food truck, with supporters following it to different locations. The Kazuyo Sushi food truck has been up and running for the past six years. Its success told the owners, Chef Joe and his wife Angelica, that it was time to open a dine-in restaurant which became official on December 1, 2024 located on 28112 Bouquet Canyon Rd. Chef Joe has been in his craft since 1999 when he became the head sushi chef at Yamashiro for around 10 years.
The menu has countless delicious options with different categories such as sushi & sashimi, regular rolls & handrolls, lunch bowls, lunch bento boxes, dinner bowls, dinner bento boxes, and various different drinks! All of these options have great portions, so you definitely get what you pay for. The precision and detail that goes into the food is amazing for how quickly it is made! Their cuisine is not only packed with fresh and flavorful ingredients, but also lots of love!
The name Kazuyo is a female Japanese name, but in the owner’s language (Filipino), “Kasuyo” means sweetheart. The name perfectly represents the love between Chef Joe and Angelica! The restaurant has grown significantly over time with an expanded menu, improved service standards, and adaptation to customer preferences while maintaining the quality and flavors that define Twisted Kazuyo! Several challenges have impacted the restaurant including rising food costs, gas, staff shortages, and more. However, they have been able to overcome the hardships by posting more on social media and staying flexible and determined!
We spoke to Angelica, the co-owner, who told us that both her and Chef Joe’s favorite part about running the business is being able to share their food with the community and see people genuinely enjoy it. She noted, “There’s nothing more rewarding than watching customers come back, bring their families, and make our restaurant part of their lives.” Both Angelica and Chef Joe love getting to know their customers and being part of their everyday lives – whether it’s a quick meal or a special celebration! Those interactions make the business feel more personal and meaningful.
We talked to Kamilah De La Rosa, a freshman who regularly stops by Twisted Kazuyo. In the interview she mentioned, “My favorite thing is how kind the staff is. They really make the whole place feel welcoming, almost like you’re part of a family which is rare for most restaurants.” Kamilah told us that her favorite item on the menu is the lunch special because it comes with katsu, salad, miso soup, and sushi which gives you a large variety for a really good price. She finished by saying, “Overall, I think the atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the food is consistently great, which makes the whole experience even better.”
This business is more than just a restaurant, it’s part of the community. Those at Twisted Kazuyo are more than grateful for every customer that walks through their doors. They are committed to giving back by providing great food, service and a welcoming environment! The goals of the restaurant are to survive their trials and grow by serving more people, improving what they offer, and creating an even better experience for their customers. In the long-term, they would love to expand while still keeping the same heart that defines them.
As mentioned before, every restaurant has obstacles. One major test that Twisted Kazuyo has recently faced is the closure of the main road leading to their restaurant which is to remain for the next 10 months or so. It has had a large impact on sales and foot traffic. They are remaining resilient, relying on loyal customers, spreading the word, and finding new ways to reach people during this difficult time.
Twisted Kazuyo is a place filled not only with delicious food, but with love and a beautiful passion. Amidst hardships, help from the city means the world to this talented spot. The amazing quality food, friendly owners and staff, and environment packed with love is all the more reason to go and support Twisted Kazuyo!
